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[Thread Battle Power: Around 3,000 or so. Nerfed slightly for story purposes.] [Ki Suppression is active when she isn't flying and until she fires a wave of Ki on the Isle]
"That's the end of it Calla - you're going - whether you want to or not isn't the issue. We have to show the social worker that you are adjusting to your life with us. If we don't, they'll send you off to another family; is that what you want?" Hayden asked her foster daughter as she sat across from her at the kitchen table. She really did care - not that that ever mattered; destined to play the bad guy in every argument, and not a 'real' mother to this child.
She even calls me by my first name. I'll never be mom to her, but I shouldn't stop trying just because it's hard. I chose this - her - and I'll be damned if I'm stricken down by a teenager. School isn't horrible - I don't know why she suddenly hates it so much - she did attend before her parents passed . . . is she really hurting that much?
Most of the deep, wooden cabinets were flung open, drawers pulled out slightly, and a couple pans were left out on the stove: the Saiyan Youth had been making lunch for herself. A thick aroma of chicken and spices filled most of the apartment, completely distracting from the serious conversation. With her arms folded tightly just beneath her breasts, she glared at Hayden as if her gaze would be enough to shatter her foster mother into a million pieces.
News flash: it didn't so much as phase the woman. She had learned to numb herself to Calla since it became clear that every battle would be a never-ending tug of war. Instead, Hayden brushed her scarlet bangs out of her face and took a breath. "I know how feel. Please you have to go back to school. It'll help - I promise." The pans sizzled as chicken began to burn on one side, but neither of them moved to shut the stove off. She glanced over to them, but then watched Calla with all the sympathy in the world. Something had been off with her for weeks now. She spent less and less time at home, ignored her siblings and chores, even stayed out past curfew every single night. And, none of that explained the blood in her clothes.
"I don't know what to feel. I don't even know who I am anymore - where I belong - and you want me to go and play human? I wish I knew what I desired, but, I just don't okay?!" The Teenager clenched her fists tightly and slammed one done harshly upon the granite counter. The rock splintered and fell into several broken chunks as it thudded to the floor; a faint dusting rose up. The apartment's smoke alarm rang in its piercing tone over and over, as smoke fumed into the air. Hayden rushed to turn off the burners, forgetting momentarily to glance back at her foster daughter.
Calla's eyes widened and she stared blankly at her hands that quaked. "S-sorry, I didn't mean -" She turned and one motion walked out of the kitchen. Ignoring her mother's calls (and the lovely smell of her now ruined lunch), she went into her bedroom, locked the door and opened the window. In the next instant, her aura flared and she flew away - tears streaming down her cheeks.
Her flight path went far East of South City where islands grew further and further apart. Remembering where the Turtle Hermit lived, she instinctively headed in that direction. Bursting into cloud after cloud, she descended - through a fog and haze of water droplets lower and lower until she practically glided atop the waters that shimmered in the sunlight. Eventually she let her Ki dissipate, and she touched down on an small, uninhabited isle. Panting, she caught her breath and tried to calm herself down.
School. She wants me to be human, and I can't be that for her - not anymore. It's like I'm being torn in every direction at once. Everything tugs at my heart, and, there are no answers that won't frighten me. I'm terrified of myself, of what I can become. The release I felt from fighting, is nice, but, I know how easy I can lose who I am. I nearly killed a man last time. I know Hayden has seen the stains in my clothes, but I can't understand why she hasn't called me out on them yet . . .
Blinking, Calla felt warm, sweltering in fact, underneath the suns rays. Without another thought she shed a layer of garments; leaving her in a tank top and dark, slightly aged and ripped trousers. Her jacket collected dirt on the ground. They were the pair she had worn when she fought Bruno - the night she'd met Cornatto. She hadn't washed them since then, for some reason finding the musk they now had comforting. Letting her tail out, it swayed back and forth as she stretched, sighing deeply as her emotions and mindset stabilized.
It felt nice out, and although she was starving, that hardly seemed to matter. Her hunger could wait for now. A day like this needed to be enjoyed, before twilight could fall, and the all too present threat of a full moon lingered. She would have to be careful not to stay out all night. The stories of what a Saiyan can become under the influence of a full moon, weren't something she wanted to experience first hand. In fact, she hadn't planned on leaving home at all today, but the argument changed things.
Scant clouds drifted across the skyline slowly. Wave crashed up against rocks that littered a small shoreline, and leaves fell from a few trees that lined the landscape and encased a long prairie of dry lengthy grass. A few birds began to chirp, and the noises of wildlife echoed, bringing a peaceful setting to a young girl in inner turmoil. Without realizing it, the Saiyan Youth began to expel her Ki visibly; a faded crimson aura gathering around her person. After a few moments, she did notice, but figured allowing her suppression to slip so far away from a city wouldn't be a big deal. There was no one (except maybe Cornatto) that would sense her Aura anyways. A foolishly inaccurate thought.
Since I'm already out here, I could practice shaping my Ki. It seems like my Saiyan side is already expecting some destruction to be wrought - even if it is only damaging to the terrain. I should be able to avoid harming any life around. Besides, none of the critters out here would even be worth a challenge.
Focusing, Calla closed her eyes, picturing the form she wished her energy would take. She lowered a palm to the side of her waist, and imagined a sphere there. An orb created of her own volition as an outward expression of her Aura that would rapidly rotate, and grow the more effort she supplied. She poured all thought to it, crying out lightly as her eyes opened, straining in the midst of the blaring sun.
At her side she contained swirling Ki that nearly burnt her palm as it developed past the threshold where she could stay herself. Finally, she screamed as her arm extended and a wave of pure crimson tore up the area before her. Its path continued on, ripping through dirt, soil and sand alike, until it crashed right into a tree and fractured its trunk. It fell, collapsing with the most horrible of sounds. A few mammals fled in rampant terror from the minor devastation, leaving the Teenager to once more regain her bearings. Her breaths coming in soft, plentiful pants.
[Thread Power Level: 134,975] [Ki Suppression On. PL: 5]
Galen had started his training under the Turtle Hermit ever since he met Cornatto on the Kame Island nearly a month ago and ever since then he had been visiting him quite often; he couldn’t really stay there for long because of his duties as the Keeper of Korin’s Tower and, as such, he had to be there and make sure the senzu beans were growing as they should and that the Holy Grounds and the Karinga tribe were doing well. The human would always choose to travel on top of his Flying Nimbus not only due to the convenience of resting his body, but also because he enjoyed the cloud’s company; he saw the Nimbus as a dear friend and it did save his life back when he was stabbed by Durendal.
The Nimbus wasn’t as fast as he was, but fast enough to reach the Islands in a matter of hours and as he got close to it, he sensed an energy signature which, while not incredibly high, was still much higher when compared to your everyday john. ”Uhn? Who do you think it is, Nimbus?” he asked and the Nimbus just shrugged, making him chuckle a bit and shrug too. ”Guess we will just have to check it out then.” and with that, the Nimbus headed towards the energy source, descending slowly as it approached.
As he got closer, he saw a pretty girl in some ragged clothes. She had her ki aura around her and was just tearing down a tree with a ki blast. Galen’s eyes widened as he approached, still sitting on top of the Nimbus, that was now hovering just a few inches above the ground. ”Wow. That was neat. But poor tree, I think next time you could aim at a rock. I doubt the rock would mind!” his tone was friendly and he, by no means, meant to scold the girl and he hoped that his tone and gentle smile would be enough of a hint regarding that fact.
WC: 350
So sorry it took me so long T_T I promise I won’t take nearly as long for the next ones!
That's a cloud. This person - he's sitting on a yellow puffball. It's just floating. That's kinda awesome actually! But, who the hell is he, and why didn't I sense him coming? He can't be normal. Yet, I feel almost nothing from his Aura; almost like he isn't here at all.
The newcomer had surprised the Saiyan Teenager. In fact, she had been honing her senses to ensure she wouldn't be receiving any unexpected guests. Apparently, this human (presumably) could suppress his Ki like she, or simply couldn't be very strong. As her breathing steadied, she let her Aura fade into nothing. She relaxed sighing as her body relished in a brief surge of returning strength. Then, striding towards him, she stared at Nimbus completely ignoring its rider for the moment - her curiosity getting the better of her. Behind her, the tail attached to her backside swayed back and forth, playfully. Eventually it decided to rest, coiling around her waist until the individual's intent became clear.
Tilting her head, she attempted to figure out just how Nimbus could carry the weight of Galen without him tumbling right onto the ground. Maybe this particular cloud, contained matter that possessed a consistent enough substance to form a solid state. Its appearance - aside from the odd coloring - suggested a common cumulus form, but that left the part where it could be taken from the sky and mounted to explain. Creeping forward, Calla started to raise her hand towards it. Thereafter, she stopped abruptly, and let it fall back against her hip. Face flushing a bit scarlet, she realized not only had she not paid proper mind to the human atop it, but she also hadn't bothered to respond in the first place!
What he said struck her (albeit seconds later than his words probably should have), so she turned her gaze slightly over to the tree that now nestled itself against the dirt, rocks and grains of sand; its bark splintered in half and all the life that once flowed through it ceased to do so through the roots that were still anchored into the soil. The stems of leaves shuttered in the air, falling, descending downward and littering the area around the tree's stump. As she faced him again she bit her lip lightly and nodded in his direction. Granted, she could tell from tone well enough that the words parted to her were partially in jest, but it didn't stop her from feeling a tinge of guilt at the result.
"I was a bit upset, so I wasn't exactly thinking straight. I'll admit that I hadn't considered the tree's life. I avoided the animals easily enough - sensing the aura of a plant though, isn't something I'd naturally do." For whatever reason, Calla felt the need to explain herself to Galen. His inherent kindness made him rather easy to talk to, and in a way kept her calm. If another person approached her while she happened to be isolated so far away from home, she may have grown aggressive quite swiftly. However, he just wasn't intimidating, and the blood within her veins barely responded to his presence.
He's kind like Cornatto. At least, he hardly seems menacing. Besides, he would have attacked me outright if his intentions were hostile. With the advantage he had over me, he could have easily stricken me before I could react. It's weird not being able to feel what his Aura is like outside that it exists. There I go again, thinking about combat . . . one track mind. That cloud is really strange though.
She took another casual step forward this time holding her hand just above Nimbus. "This may sound weird, but may I touch your cloud? Oh, my name's Calla by the way. I'm a Saiyan (not human) - in case you find my tail as odd as I find your friend here."
The girl seemed surprised with Galen’s sudden approach, but not in a bad way. She looked more curious than anything, especially when she saw the Flying Nimbus, almost seeming like she was completely charmed by it and couldn’t take her eyes off it. The girl approached and then almost touched the cloud with her hands, but she gave up shortly after. The Nimbus trembled a bit, almost as if it was saying that it would be fine with the touch, but only Galen would then understand and that made him giggle a bit. The human also noticed her tail and he chuckled. ”Another saiyan. They are becoming quite common around these parts. It’s a shame every time I sense a high energy it’s not from a fellow human. Guess my race do slack off a lot!” he thought to himself, feeling slightly frustrated he and Cleo were like, almost the sole exceptions of decent human fighters and yet he couldn’t compare to most saiyans he had met so far.
She seemed to be a bit shy, or embarrassed by something, but Galen didn’t mind at all and when she finally spoke to him, she was far gentler than he hoped, considering she was a saiyan, which made him remember Jie Shan and Cornatto, who behaved in a very different light than your average saiyan warrior. Calla explained herself to him, even though he was by no means scolding her. The human shook his head as if it was alright. ”Don’t worry about that. Training-wise the rock will also put up more of a challenge, being harder to break, so… It’s a win-win, right?” he chuckled after speaking with his kind tone.
After that she took another step forward and held her hand above the cloud and then asked if she could touch it, then, she revealed she was a saiyan, which made him giggle in amusement a tad bit more. ”The Nimbus already said you could touch it to me, so it’s fine. It’s not like I owe it or something, it’s a friend of mine. I call it Flying Nimbus, not very original, right? I know… I’m terrible with names, but it doesn’t seem to mind the name!” his tone was jolly. ”And your tail is quite fine, I’ve met plenty of saiyans in this life of mine. Doesn’t shock me anymore, hehehe… But hey! There’s one catch! You can only actually touch the Nimbus if you are pure of heart. I know it may sound condescending, but… That’s how it works. If you can, though, why don’t we go for a ride on it?” when Galen said that, he offered his hand to help her up. ”Do you trust me?” and his smile was nothing but kind and gentle.
Calla couldn't stop her tail from unraveling itself and swaying lightly at the compliment. Apparently it too had somewhat a mind of its own, and had already decided it liked Galen, despite what little trust the Saiyan Youth held towards him in general. He may have been polite, but with an Aura she couldn't exactly read, and a flying (apparently living) cloud named Nimbus, her goodwill stretched itself thin. She kept her hand steady for several moments, simply considering his words.
I can touch it, but only if I'm Pure of Heart - what does that mean? There's not a textbook definition for something like that. But, I do really wanna ride it with him. Yes, he's a complete stranger offering such an odd thing, but it's not like I couldn't just shove him off if he tries anything weird. Besides, he named it Nimbus, that's just adorable as fuck. He can't possibly have malice in his intent.
Gently she lowered her hand, peering up at the Human as she attempted place her palm flat against the front of the first row of yellow puffs that made up Nimbus. Her tail crept forward, coiling back around her waist protectively as she felt warmth, and the tremors that rose up into her hand, almost as though the cloud purred, appreciating the pat. But, that would just be silly right? Regardless, that didn't stay her from petting the puffball. She stroked along the surface many times as she returned her focus to the boy atop it, and tilted her head at him curiously.
"I'm not sure - you haven't even told me your name yet." She stated removing her hand and casually gripping Galen's offered one with her opposite, despite what she had said. Thereafter, she would use his strength to help prop herself up onto Nimbus with him. Once mounted, she would shift awkwardly in an effort to find a comfortable spot without disturbing him, or Nimbus for that matter. Although, it was hard not to wonder how she would stay on it without clinging to him. Soaring across the skies at high speeds complicated matters when you weren't the one controlling the momentum of the flight.
I'm sitting on a cloud, that's not anything I ever expected to say I've done. Not a lot of space on here though - seems like it's meant for a single person. He called Nimbus his friend, but I wonder how many have called it that. And if that's not strange enough, he claims to have known a lot of Saiyans. Just how old is he? He appears to be my age!
Catching herself staring at Galen, she turned away quickly to gaze at the horizon they'd soon be heading towards. With the sun still gleaming high in the sky, she wouldn't have to worry about a certain moon peeking out there any time soon. Forgetting her hunger, and the intention to train, she settled firmly upon learning more about this mysterious Human directly in front of her. Relaxing she let her tail loose; it draped off the side of Nimbus stretching itself out fully. If Galen knew well enough about her species, he'd know not to touch it anyways.
"I have a pure heart huh - that's cool I guess - may I know of your name now? Also . . . uh another weird question, are you hiding your Aura from me for any particular reason? It feels strange - there and not there at the same time. I naturally suppress mine, but, it bleeds out when I exert myself."
As she spoke a few clouds slipped in front of the bright sphere in the sky, sheltering them from the heat and momentarily,covering them in flickering shadows. Meters across from them, the wildlife returned to inspect the fallen tree, curiously climbing on top of it to peck, scratch and burrow against it; a bird had a nest to rebuild, flapping from one still standing canopy to another. It screeched a few unpleasant calls, then, fell silent again.
"Oh, promise not to grab my tail alright?"
[WC: 675] [TWC: 2,597]
Last Edit: Apr 17, 2017 19:28:33 GMT -5 by Deleted: word choice
When she managed to touch the Flying Nimbus Galen knew immediately that she was a good person and that made him giggle a bit in satisfaction. ”No surprise, really, but it’s good to know for sure.” he thought to himself. When he asked if she trusted him though, she said she wasn’t sure since she didn’t even know his name. Galen slapped his forehead laughing a bit due to his lack of etiquette. ”Hahaha! I’m sorry, my name is Galen, by the way.” he simply yet kindly said while he helped her up the yellow cloud.
She seemed to relax a bit as she made herself as comfortable as it was possible atop the cloud and then she stated what he already knew: that she had a pure heart, making him chuckle a bit. ”Indeed you do.” he added. Then as she asked him about his aura, he scratched the back of neck with a guilty expression on his face, and chuckled nervously a bit. ”You got me there! I am suppressing my energy signature. I’m not absurdly good doing that, but as long as I don’t have to fly I can keep it down.” he admitted shrugging a bit. Galen was far better sensing rather than suppressing, but he saw no point in improving in that skill, truth be told, as it would serve him almost no purpose; he didn’t like to fight with tricks.
It was somewhat funny when she asked him not to grab her tail and she even made him promise. Galen chuckled a bit and winked at her. ”As long as you don’t turn into a giant ape, I promise!” he said, revealing that he was indeed familiar with the saiyans transformations. After that, he adjusted himself on the cloud, sitting near the edge of it to give Calla space and then stared back at her with the corner of his dark eyes. ”Hold on tightly! I don’t want you falling down, although I’m quite sure you can fly with your energy level! Hehe!” he said in a light hearted tone and then, after a brief moment of wait, he tapped the cloud and it took the skies at an amazing speed, much faster than, say, Calla’s maximum flying speed.
Should I mention it's a full moon tonight to him; I mean he has to know that's how it works right? I wouldn't choose to transform, it would just happen when I'm exposed to the rays. If I never let it transform me though . . . I don't believe there's another path to learn how to control myself when I'm that, that thing.
Galen told the Saiyan Youth to hold on tight, and the thought occurred: to what exactly. Peeking around frantically for something to cling to, she suddenly realized he meant to himself. It's not like Nimbus came equipped with handles, armrests and cup-holders and all. As he shifted forward, she too crept her body closer, and more on the cloud. Extending arms she wrapped them around his waist. Her tail though, she kept draped over the side, figuring this would be a decent time to let it fly freely. After all, unless a person could keep up with Nimbus, the threat of it being grabbed, while they soared the skies above, seemed slim.
In the moments after, everything became a blur as the sheer speed of Nimbus shocked Calla. Gasping she slid forward on it and clung to Galen. Without realizing, her eyes were shut taut - the vast amount of pressure from the momentum whirling against her. Slowly, she opened them, and blinked several times as the rush itself, caused a few tears to form in them and trail down her cheeks. It took many more (seconds), before she regained her bearings enough to enjoy the scenery as it slipped from her view and altered itself before her gaze.
To think Nimbus could move at this rate - I sense nothing abnormal from it, but, it tears through the sky in a way I've never seen. Does that mean Galen, is that much more powerful to be able to tame it in the first place? He only mentioned the thing about Pureness, but something like this wouldn't pick an ordinary Human to be its companion.
"I-I can yes, but, not nearly this fast!" She replied as the initial fright that tugged at her faded, and now it felt almost as natural as the own manner in which she flew. Tilting her head around her fellow rider, she peered off the side, until the sights made her so dizzy that nausea rose in the pit of her navel. Taking a few breathes, she stared at Galen's back and the ill, creeping sickness passed from her easily enough. When her breathing steadied, she could speak to him as they rode along the ever changing skylines. That didn't take long, as the peace of mind that often came to her as she herself flies, swept over her consciousness.
"Galen," she said softly, "just who are you? You're the oddest Human I've ever come across. Kind to a fault, joyful as well, and not even remotely frightened of me." Although, she suspected that last bit was more due to the power that dwelt deep within his Aura. To be honest, she couldn't help her own curiosity in that regard and continued on. She peered off the side, not willing to meet his eyes should he turn around to face her. "I'd like to feel your real Aura, that is, if you wouldn't mind releasing it? Oh, and as for the whole monster Ape thing, I can only promise, just so long as you don't keep me out past sunset. There's a Full Moon tonight you know?"
A part of me wants him to though - I do desire to know what it's like to be that beast. But, I know that's too much to ask of someone that I've only just met. There's no way he'd be willing to babysit me like that, nor would I expect him to allow me to transform just so I can attempt to control it. I already know I can't - not the first time anyways - I've heard the stories . . .
Galen was glad Calla had grabbed his waist otherwise she would’ve probably fallen from the Nimbus due to its speed. Galen truly loved to fly atop of the Nimbus, but he knew it could be a little hard on the first time and because of that he tapped the yellow cloud nicely. ”Easy there on the spins, buddy. It’s her first time, you know?” and the cloud purred a bit, avoiding making loops and spinning way too much, but still, the little cloud seemed to enjoy some radical maneuvers every now and then. Calla admitted she could fly but not as fast and that remind him of his earlier days when he was still learning. ”Oh boy, I was clumsy!” the sudden memory of the past made him chuckle nostalgically for a short moment.
As they flew, sometimes above the clouds, other times just inches above the sea around the southern islands, Calla approached to talk to him and he stared at her just enough, with the corner of his eyes. The girl asked who he was and that made him chuckle once again, because there were just too many answers to that question. Still, she didn’t stare back at him and that was odd, but he paid no mind to it; some people don’t like to speak while staring at each other’s eyes. Galen liked, but he would respect her wishes. ”Well… There are many ways I can answer that question, but… If you ask me, I still see myself as a swordsman from the East and a protector of people, hahaha… Kinda lame, I know, but that’s who I am. Still, on this life I managed to become other things too.” his tone was quite casual and humble and he didn’t seem to like bragging about his accomplishments.
But before he could dwell any deeper as to who he was, she asked to be able to sense his aura, and said that she wouldn’t turn as long as she wasn’t out during the full moon and he nodded. ”No problem, if you want I can take you home before that, but hey… That form is not too dangerous. I’ve dealt with two… Yeah, two of them and one was my friend. Oh… There was a yellow one too, but I didn’t get close to that one. It was absurdly powerful! Hahaha…” he said, remembering the time he saw Komatsu transforming. After that he sighed. ”As for my ki… Alright, I can show you.” Galen took a very deep breath and exhaled slowly as he let go of his suppression.
[Ki Suppression Off. PL: 134,975]
”That’s my ki when I’m not hiding it, but also when I’m not pushing myself to my limits. If I’m to be completely honest, when I get tense I can increase it… Maybe tenfold? Yeah, seems about right. But I don’t like to do that… Tension… It’s just too stressing.” he said and his tone carried a small bit of concern; every time he released his tension, he would get angry and end up hurting people more than he intended.
Nimbus really did seem like it had a mind of its own. Darting about, swirling and tumbling through fellow clouds, then diving straight down and soaring across ocean waters. Beneath it the pale blues and greens rippled, and thereafter cracked into brief waves from the surge of momentum just above. In another moment, it rose back up into the skyline and burst through a puffy white, cumulus. Thankfully, the skies saw fit not to rain on them, or they'd be getting soaked right about now.
Galen talked about his life as something completely ordinary however, as far as Calla could tell, it was anything but that. A simple swordsman wouldn't be like this at all. She didn't believe he would lie - rising from humble beginnings told a very different tale than that after all. And, to have seen Great Apes and not cower at their forms, that's another story entirely. But, she had never heard anything about ones that possessed yellow fur - could that be some sort of genetic mutation?
When he released his Aura, Calla gasped. It attacked all her senses at once, despite her being prepared for the revelation. Like Cornatto, his Ki towered above any expression she could manage. It also contained no sign of corruption. She pressed closer to him as Nimbus took the opportunity to do a few loops. If she didn't know better, she would have guessed that it attempted to showoff as well. The way it trembled (purred), rumbling up into them, gifted an amount of credence to that notion. On the final one, the Nimbus dove once more, brushing against the ocean's surface.
Calla laughed softly at the display (but wouldn't dare release her grip around Galen's waist for fear of sliding off); glad that it decided to stay close to the water instead of rapidly ascending again. Yes she enjoyed the flight, but the constant shifts in speed, altitude and motion, were tying up her stomach in knots that wouldn't easily come undone. Granted, this would be the most fun she has had all week, so, she could deal with a little stomach ache.
He can push himself further than what his Aura displays now? Well that's kinda awesome! Although, I wonder what he means it stresses him - physically or mentally? If I had to guess it's probably both. As for that Ape he sensed with tremendous power, maybe I'll ask Cornatto about it next time I see him - he could shed some light on that.
It dawned on her that she left her jacket behind on that Island, but, she merely shrugged that off. There were tons like it in her closet back home, and some of them didn't have holes in them! "You know, you're a lot tougher than your demeanor suggests. You'd be terrifying (and exciting), to stand against in battle. Oh, not that I wish to fight you." She replied after some time of merely enjoying the ride Nimbus provided.
Although she couldn't quite look in the mirror at the moment, Calla, was certain the long locks of her jet-black hair were not only tangled and knotted in places, but a disheveled mess given the rate at which they were traveling both with and against the gale-force winds. Regardless, that didn't stop her from shaking it out rather playfully to get it out of her face.Thereafter, running her hand across, she brushed stray bangs away easily. "This feels great~" She exclaimed, tempting fate by letting one of her arms reach down and dip into the ocean still within reach.
As Nimbus rapidly ascended afterward though, she immediately wrapped that arm back around Galen tightly, getting a bit of his tunic wet with the salty water. "I'm unsure you'd want my company tonight - although it would be nice to see a real full moon for once. . . I get the feeling pictures in books don't do it justice." If the Saiyan Youth sounded manipulative, she didn't intend to be. For years she'd never dared to glance at it when it reached its zenith each month, mostly out of fear of what she'd become, but, also because she felt she'd be endangering everyone around her. "Uhm, anyways I interrupted you didn't I? Sorry about that - you were telling of other things you've become in life?"
[WC:718] [TWC:3,976]
Last Edit: Apr 19, 2017 22:35:17 GMT -5 by Deleted
Her company was surprisingly pleasant and made him remember his days at his home village of Goddodin, a long time ago. They were fun and simple. He, his siblings and friends would adventure in the vicinities of the village, hike on the mountains, ride horses together and so many other things. This nostalgic feeling made his heart feel warm and butterflies to take over his stomach and that made him chuckle happily.
He was brought back to present time when she said he was tougher than he looked and that made him laugh. ”Yeah, I get that a lot. Doesn’t help I look young too, even though I’m not that young anymore…” his comment was just casual, he didn’t mean to really tell her his age, not because he wished to hide it, but just because he didn’t care as much; ever since his village was destroyed and all, he never celebrated his birthday again, and just kept tabs on his age so he would know it. It would be very embarrassing to not know your own age, but sometimes he would even forget his birth day. ”It does feel great… Even though I can fly, I will almost always choose to fly with the Nimbus. I miss company sometimes, and he is like… One of my closest friends.” Galen was kind of lonely, even though he did have friends and people he cared for, in the end he lived alone in the middle of a tower nowhere.
Calla wanted to see the moon, that was crystal clear and Galen knew he could most definitely handle her Ape form without having to neither use a lot of his strength nor hurt her so he shrugged. ”I guess I can handle you in the night. We should definitely see the moon together. It’s amazing.” he invited her before she asked what else he had accomplished in his life. Galen sighed and then started. ”Well… I was just a swordsman entitled to protect my village from bandits. I was trained by the Orin Temple monks. But I failed and my village was destroyed and the sole survivors of that tragedy were me and my sister, Esther.” he paused briefly. ”Esther moved to East City and got married and I decided to travel around the world helping people as much as I could and I did that for… Ten years I guess?… Something like that. Then I met… The Guardian of this Planet.” he decided that “Guardian” was less shocking than “God”. ”And I found a new purpose: to become a protector of this planet and ever since then I’ve been trying my hardest.” he said with a subtle smile on his face.
”Because of that I ended up becoming the Keeper of Korin’s Tower, located in Korin’s Holy Grounds. This made me not only the protector of those lands, but also the patron of the Karinga Tribe and the… Let’s say gatekeeper to the Guardian’s Lookout. That’s basically it, give or take.” and he wasn’t bragging and because of that he tried to say it as casually as he could.
Galen told of a life that Calla couldn't quite imagine. Bandits, swordsman, raids and senseless slaughter, were not anything she'd be familiar with - being essentially a city girl despite her Saiyan heritage. Still though, she listened intently, keeping her gaze locked forward upon him. She wanted him to know that he had her full attention, and wasn't simply talking to the sky. This time not even shame would turn her away. It would have been far too rude, after he started retelling sensitive details of his past.
If she had known his response would be so personal, she would have understood if he didn't wish to share those memories. There were stories she never dreamed of telling, and some, like the truth behind her biological parents, too painful to learn about to begin with. It's why she didn't desire to search for them after the death of her adoptive parents. They'd thrown her away, why should she care about their side of it? But, to lose everyone you've ever known save for a single person - that's not something she'd wish on anyone.
He turned from his own suffering, and used it as a shield to protect those that couldn't defend themselves - humanity sure knows how to survive tragedy. The pain I feel urges me to destroy, but, his creates hope. And, he has something to live for. It's more than I can claim for myself right now.
If anything, he at least deserved a hug. After all, Nimbus may be rather awesome, but it couldn't replace the friends that Galen lost. A cloud can't hold you and tell you everything will be fine. He literally had part of the world on his shoulders, and by the way he spoke, it sounded as though he intended to carry that burden alone. So, Calla lifted her arms from his waist and slid them up around his chest. She then leaned in to rest her head against him, and thereafter, let him finish speaking.
She held him that way for a few more moments after the silence fell, then politely shifted her arms around his waist and gave him his space back. "Sorry, I sensed that you uh, might have needed that. You know, you didn't have to tell me. I know memories can hurt as much as battle wounds. They bleed too . . .constant reminders." And that was all she said about the embrace, before turning her focus back to what had been spoken about. Honestly, a lot of the details lingered in her mind. There were questions she had, but, he had told her enough and she felt it wouldn't be proper to press him further.
Korin's tower huh, that name is really familiar, but I can't recall from where. And the Guardian of Earth too, that might be right out of a legend. Except it's all real. I wonder if he'll take me there as well? Although . . . I'm far more excited to see a full moon! He really wants to see it with me - even knowing what I'll become under its influence.
With sunset still hours off however, it would be awhile before Galen could make that dream come true. Plenty of time for her to worry about how it might go - about if the transformation would be painful, and if he'd still want her company after seeing her like that: fierce, filled with rage and uncontrollable wrath. He was probably the sweetest human she'd ever met, but, everyone has their limits.
"I should probably let you ask me something now right? I believe that's only fair - unless you rather not that is. And as for tonight, there's nothing I'd rather do more than see it with you. Just uhm, when I turn . . . you won't cut off my tail will you?"
He was quite surprised when he was actually hugged by Calla and that made his heart skip a beat and then race like crazy. Galen’s cheeks grew absurdly red and he was really embarrassed by that, but at the same time he enjoyed the gesture. He felt like butterflies were in his stomach as she leaned her head against his back and he took a very deep breath, just smiling and enjoying that feeling. ”Wow… It has been forever since I was hugged… It feels so nice…” he thought to himself, chuckling a bit. When she broke the hug and apologized for that he chuckled a bit more. ”Why are you apologizing? It felt incredibly nice… I liked it very much…” his tone was still a bit embarrassed, but Galen was a quite talkative and honest person and he felt it was only right that she knew how he felt when she hugged him. It was fair.
The human was still wondering why she did that though: out of empathy? Out of pity? Out of affection? He couldn’t know and probably wouldn’t know unless he asked her, but in the end he decided it didn’t matter why she did that; he should just be grateful for the gesture and let it go from his questionings. The Nimbus was now crossing the Paprika Wasteland, the large desert in the middle of the world and, somehow, it was heading towards the Tower, almost as if, during his story, the flying cloud thought it would be nice to prove Galen was telling the truth.
He blushed once again when, after giving him permission to ask her something, she said she was really looking forward watching the moon with him and that made him feel a little bit anxious for that. Still, when she mentioned the tail, he frowned his brows a bit. ”I wouldn’t ever do that. I know it reverts you back, but I also know that you can grow to control it with time. I would rather help you with the later, after all, the tail is part of you and it would be very wrong to tear it off.” he said in a more serious tone; he remembered when Sarai cut off that saiyan’s tail, when it wasn’t really necessary for Galen had already knocked him out. It was something he didn’t want to happen to anyone else, unless the Ape was endangering lots of lives, but with Calla, Galen would make sure she wouldn’t while at the same time, avoiding hurting her.
Then, his smile returned as he stared back at her, chuckling a bit. ”By the way, there’s something I want to ask you, as a matter of fact. Would like something to eat before the sun set?” he had a goofy smile and expression on his face, but it was, in the end, a very important question.
Nimbus raced towards Korin's Tower; across the wasteland that receded rapidly and into a village and the green-lands that opened up further down beneath it. It wouldn't be long before the cloud flew across the mythic Land of Korin, where the Karinga Tribe resided, and where Galen as Keeper lived. All the while, rays of the sun high above streamed, and flickered in fractured beams between trees; as shadows cast atop grassy knolls, and as a bright warmth upon Nimbus' charges. Calla sighed, wrapping her tail around herself as they drew nearer, and, while her stomach rumbled against her fellow rider at the mention of food.
Hot blotches of red streaks spread out across her face as she heard of it. One arm fell away from Galen's side and pressed up harshly upon her navel in an attempt to silence and stay its trembling. As her tail sifted off the side again, swaying in the breeze, her efforts provided little solace. And her belly roared, gurgling once more to her great embarrassment. She glanced away, gazing at the clouds, and trying to pretend she heard and felt nothing at all. Of course, she would have to respond, and there was no way her tummy hadn't been noticed.
Well things can't really get more awkward than this - so that's swell. Get all of that crap out of the way before we land. I'm glad he enjoyed the embrace, but, I hope he isn't expecting anything further. I only meant to comfort him as he told of painful times, and his regrets. Sometimes humans jump to conclusions, and I just hope he hasn't. I never meant for him to get so worked up about it. But, his face went crimson - like mine - and it was damn adorable . . .
When she finally did reply, she didn't beat around the bush and stayed direct: "I'm starving!" she exclaimed. "So, uh well - I would love to eat whatever you can offer me. And, I believe my tummy agrees with that. Is there enough for both of us on your Tower? I assume that's where Nimbus is taking us."
The blush upon her face only started to fade as she explained, but, eventually she only felt silly that she had been anxious about anything as important as a missed meal. She couldn't help but think back to the one she had slaved over the stove to make, and how it smoldered into burnt crisps, all thanks to the fight she had with her foster mother. A thoroughly torched meal could be a rather depressing, but, accurate metaphor for their relationship as it stood. They weren't on pleasurable terms with one another, especially now that the whole school issue was being forced into her life once more.
Sighing the Saiyan Youth peered forward, leaning against Galen as the first glimpses of his Tower came into view. "You weren't lying then!" she blurted out, pausing for a moment as she replayed what she said aloud in her head. "Not that I thought you were just - I've learned to be wary of Humans," she attempted to explain. "They tend to play any advantage at their disposal; like tugging at my tail. Jerks. I'm glad though you're not frightened by it as well. It really is a part of who I am . . . and I don't wish to imagine life without it." Seemingly of its own volition, that said tail swayed back and forth and coiled tightly around her waist as she shifted back into her normal seated position. Soon, she figured they'd be landing, and she had no desire to fall off right before then.
It's real. It's like something out of a fucking storybook, but, here it is, standing so tall that I can't even make out the peak from this vantage. Wait, that also means what he told of the Guardian of Earth is the truth. He is the path to speak to what a person could consider a god. Huh, he's rather humble for someone in such a powerful position. If he were a Saiyan, I bet arrogance would come with title.
Her body answered before she even could and that made him giggle a bit. However, shortly after that she answered saying she was starving indeed and that she would love to eat whatever he had to offer before nightfall and he nodded, chuckling in excitement. ”Yup! We are going to my place! I have a lot of food there too, more than I need! I just can’t stop the members of the Karinga Tribe from offering it as a way to honor me because of my position. Honestly it’s quite embarrassing to receive so many food from them and I try to cook to them every once in a while. I also grow some crops down there.” he said, pointing his finger to a small farm in a glade in the middle of the woods. It wasn’t very big and they were way too high up in the sky to take a proper look, but it did seem he was growing quite a lot of different things. ”I guess I’m still a farmer to the core… Being raised to be one was a big part of my life before becoming a swordsman. And it really did came in handy, because one of the goals of the Tower Keeper is to grow some special and magical beans that are very hard to grow! Hahaha!” he laughed in a light hearted tone; it was funny how fate works and that Galen ended up being the Tower Keeper while knowing how to be a farmer. He was doing an wonderful job with the senzu beans.
When they approached the Tower Calla seemed quite surprised he wasn’t lying and that made him laugh again. ”I don’t like to lie. Haha. I mean, what kind of protector would I be if I was a liar?” he asked rhetorically, but when she mentioned she learned to be wary of humans, his smile faded a bit and he listened to her reasons as she began explaining. Galen sighed and he stared back at her with the corner of his eyes with empathy. ”I know my race is flawed. They are weak and scared and they don’t like those who are different. But some of us aren’t like that and a few of those are really trying to help the others to cast away their prejudice and judgment and embrace the ones who are different. I hope that in the future we will have a better Earth that’s welcoming to everyone who wants to live peacefully and happily. And I will work for that goal.” and his smile returned, as gentle and kind as ever.
The Nimbus approached by going below the circular monument atop of the tower. There were four big holes around the tower itself, leading to a platform. The cloud stopped midair and Galen got back to his feet, lending his hand to Calla in order to help her up and then he crawled through one of the holes. The area was quite wide inside. On the right side was a futon style bed, with a lot of jars nearby and some folded clothes on the other end of it, all exactly the same; Galen didn’t like to use different clothes, it seemed.
In front of them there was some weird looking bean plant, bathed by the sun that entered through a slim window. There were some other jars nearby and to the left side of it a wardrobe. On the left side there was a pathway to some set of stairs leading to the upper floor, a bathtub and other things for shower and hygiene and finally, behind them there was a desk with a chair and a bookshelf with plenty of books. To the side of it there was a very small cooking pot, a grill and a lot of food stocked nearby.
”Well… Here we are. I live here! So… What would you rather eat? Some neat ramen or steak?” he offered, chuckling a bit in excitement.
The Saiyan Youth gripped Galen's hand tightly, and lifted herself up easily enough into the Tower proper. She initially stayed close to the entrance peering around at his things and the living space - more intimate than she expected really. Her gaze fell upon his bed and the clothes he laid out nearby. It struck her as a bit odd that he would wish to wear the same attire, but she actually wondered if he hired a tailor to create the same outfit. Regardless, she walked beside him surveying everything his home offered, as though she planned to commit its features to memory. Perhaps she did, her nature getting the better of her and forcing her to prepare for any unpleasant outcome of the 'eve's events. It dawned on her that should she transform tonight, she'd most likely be sleeping here.
Calla felt her face go warm - a few streaks of crimson lined her cheeks. She turned away and used exploration as an excuse to stray from her host briefly. Stepping towards the potted plant, she peeked down at it. Pressing a hand gently along its stalks, she slipped her palm up the breadth before withdrawing. The jars were also a curiosity that she momentarily titled her head at, but she wouldn't dare be impolite enough to check their contents. Although, what grew in front of her was no doubt the magical beans, plucked right out of some fairytale. Considering her hunger, she contemplated if they'd be yummy - the regenerative properties being completely unknown to her and all. Catching herself staring, she shifted back towards Galen.
At the mention of food, her mouth almost watered at the possibility of meat. Ramen she couldn't stand, as her foster mother often boiled the noodles to the point where they became crusty and all the flavor evaporated as steam. Her eyes glazed over slightly as she moved towards the grill and she couldn't resist swaying her tail in appreciation. It even brushed extremely close to her human friend - as a sign of inherent trust - before wrapping back around her waist. Rumbling again, her tummy made it rather clear which option she preferred however, she replied anyways.
"Uh, if it's not too much trouble," Calla started stumbling over her words a bit. "I'd love steak." Her tongue brushed across her lips subconsciously just thinking about scarfing down such a tasty treat. And for several moments, she had forgotten the serious turn their discussion had taken shortly before their arrival. In lieu of hunger, little else seemed relevant. However, she did fear briefly that she might have insulted him with her comments about his species - as that hadn't been her intent at all. She only wished now that what she said wasn't the truth. Thinking back on his response though, brought a smile to her face.
I almost can't believe someone like him is even real. But, he hasn't lied to me yet, and I don't really think he can tell a lie. Not without likely blushing like a huge dork. If he wants to strive to bring people together, that isn't something I'd ever stand against. Humans judge me based on my heritage, and it'd be rather nice to just be accepted for who I am - on a world like that I wouldn't ever have to pretend.
She stared at the grill longingly, and began stealing glances around it to see where the meat would be kept. Before becoming too distracted by the prospect of a finely cooked meal, she did speak to him again: "Hey uh, Galen . . ." she uttered softly, a lot more unsure of herself than the entire time she'd spent with him today. "If, uhm, you are willing to tame a Saiyan Ape, would you allow me to visit you here again?" Honestly she didn't know what would happen after tonight, but she assumed her foster mother would be furious in the morning, and it would be lovely to have a friendly place to retreat to.
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